Blue Arc delivery van to use Proterra BEV powertrain

Blue Arc battery electric delivery van chassis Photo: Proterra

Proterra has reported that the company has entered into a multi-year agreement with The Shyft Group (formerly known as Spartan Motors) to deliver powertrains for the Blue Arc electric delivery vehicle.

The Blue Arc is a battery-electric Class 3 CV designed for last-mile deliveries, although the vehicle can be adapted to become a mass transit or recreational vehicle.

Proterra will provide the H-Series battery system for production of the Blue Arc, which will provide a range of between 150 and 175 miles (240 and 280 km). The powertrains can also support expanded battery packs to increase single-charge range.

The battery packs are described as having a customisable design, which allows flexibility in how the powertrains are installed. In the case of the Blue Arc, the battery system is located between the chassis rails. The pack architecture features built-in safety systems.

“Partnering with Proterra provides Blue Arc with an industry-leading battery source that offers proven technology for our truly commercial grade EV solutions,” said Daryl Adams, president and CEO, The Shyft Group. “We are pleased to have them committed to a long-term relationship to ensure the stability and flexibility required as we grow this business.”

Proterra battery packs have undergone real-world testing of 25 million miles across a variety of applications, including work trucks and Class 8 trucks, plus construction and mining equipment.

Production of the Blue Arc delivery vans is expected to start in mid-2023.